Another brick in the wall of proof

[ltmurnau]

Researchers link gene with autism

Last Updated: Monday, December 18, 2006 | 1:23 PM ET
CBC News

European scientists have identified mutations in a gene in three families with autism disorders, the journal Nature Genetics reported Monday.

In an abstract published online, the journal said a mutation in the SHANK3 gene "can result in language and/or social communication disorders."

The mutations were found in only three families with autism disorders, "but they shed light on one … synaptic pathway that is involved in autism spectrum disorders."

Thomas Bourgeron from the Institut Pasteur and University Denis Diderot in Paris, with colleagues from France, Sweden, Germany, Britain and Norway, said SHANK3 is related to neuroligins, and genes encoding neuroligins are mutated in autism and Asperger syndrome.

Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be very different, but are generally used to describe people who have problems communicating and relating to others. In severe cases, children can't connect with people around them.

People with Asperger syndrome have problems with social development, and often exhibit obsessive, repetitive behaviours and preoccupations such as rocking or hand waving.

The Autism Society Canada said that more than one out of every 200 children is affected.

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I've always subscribed to the genetic-origin theory rather than the vaccine theory.

Funny that they name the gene SHANK, like a sharpened toothbrush handle between the ribs in the shower room....

Comments

General Jack D. Ripper and the Tin-Foil Hat Brigade

[cherdt.livejournal.com]

I thought the only people who subscribe to the vaccine theory are the same people who are opposed to water fluoridation—is that theory more mainstream than I thought?

Re: General Jack D. Ripper and the Tin-Foil Hat Brigade

[ltmurnau.livejournal.com]

It seems to be that way, but it's widely enough popularized that mainstream medical associations have had to conduct studies and publish articles denying there is a connection. A lot of people who subscribe to the vaccine theory also seem to think that autistic symptoms can be abated by strict regulation of diet - e.g. no wheat, dairy, and so forth.

I subscribe to the breeding theory myself. Wired magazine a while back had an article about the sky-high (relative to the rest of the country) rates of autism in Silicon Valley. Simple answer, geeks are finding mates....

[alexandra-art.livejournal.com]

Interesting that you say geeks are finding mates...
I could say more but don't want to on a forum which is theoretically viewable to the world. Maybe elsewhere.

[ltmurnau.livejournal.com]

Now you intrigue me... perhaps we could talk about this on the Big Flat.